Kidsfirst Kindergartens McKenzie

Welcome to Kidsfirst Kindergartens McKenzie, located in central Riccarton, Christchurch. Situated in a quiet street off Riccarton Rd, our kindergarten provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow.

At Kidsfirst Kindergartens McKenzie, we believe in fostering independence, resourcefulness, and creative problem-solving skills in our children. Our goal is to prepare them to confidently take the next steps in their learning journey. We strive to develop socially confident and successful learners who are aware of environmental matters and have a positive outlook for the future.

Inside our spacious kindergarten, natural light floods the rooms, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Children have ample space to work and play, allowing them to explore and engage in a variety of activities. Our programme is based on the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, "Te Whāriki," which sets a strong foundation for later success. Our teachers plan the programme and focus areas around the children and their whānau aspirations, ensuring a sense of ownership and a voice for every child.

Our beautiful backyard is an integral part of our programme, offering children opportunities for physical challenges and exploration. Large, established trees provide shade during the summer, while specially designed equipment supports physical growth and development. We also have a native garden, where children can connect with nature and learn about the environment.

Kidsfirst Kindergartens McKenzie is a diverse and inclusive community, celebrating the strengths and differences of all cultures. We create a welcoming environment where children feel a sense of belonging, respecting others and their natural world. Education for sustainability and place-based education are at the heart of our programme, allowing children to understand and appreciate the complexity and wonder of the world they live in.

Community and connectedness are vital to our kindergarten. We value the relationships we build with our whānau/families and embrace the multiculturalism and diversity of our community. Families are encouraged to spend time in our kindergarten, contributing in ways that feel comfortable to them and extending their child's learning.

We recommend enrolling your child for at least two full days initially, gradually building up to five days. This allows our teachers to get to know your child and provides consistency in supporting their learning. We are always open for visits, and we would be proud to show you around our unique learning environment.

To enable more children to access our not-for-profit, community kindergarten, we occasionally have special offers available for a limited time. Spaces are limited, so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities. Conditions apply.

Kidsfirst Kindergartens McKenzie is a wonderful place to learn and grow. Come and join us in creating a bright future for your child. Nau mai, tauti mai - come in any time!